Omar Abdullah's stand on Land Protection Bill 'unfortunate': Waheed Para

Srinagar, Oct 28: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) legislator Waheed Para has criticized Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s rejection of the proposed Land Protection Bill, terming it “unfortunate and ironic” that the National Conference, which once pioneered the landmark ‘Land to the Tiller’ reforms, is now opposing measures aimed at safeguarding poor and landless people.

Reacting sharply to Omar Abdullah’s statement dismissing the Bill, Para said the move exposes the ruling party’s “disconnect from ground realities” and “betrayal of its own historic legacy.” He added that the government’s refusal to recognize the rights of people settled on state land runs contrary to the social and political principles that once defined the National Conference’s identity.

“Even people in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh have created houses on state land, but it is unfortunate that the party which introduced the ‘land to tiller’ concept is now opposing and saying that people cannot occupy state land,” Para remarked.

He said the proposed legislation was not about legitimizing encroachments but about providing dignity and ownership to poor families who have been residing on such lands for decades. “Instead of addressing livelihood and shelter issues, the government is busy making political statements to please certain sections,” he added.

Para further urged the Chief Minister to reconsider his stance and take a “humanitarian view” of the matter, emphasizing that the issue is not political but social in nature. “Our laws and policies must reflect compassion and inclusivity. The denial of land rights to the poor will deepen alienation and fuel public anger,” he warned.

The Land Protection Bill, introduced today, has triggered political controversy after the Omar-led government rejected it, calling it “legally untenable and socially risky.” The Bill sought to grant ownership or occupancy rights to individuals who have been living on state land for years, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. [KNT]